WaCSim: A Water and Cyber Simulation Tool for Enhancing Cyber Security in Smart Water Systems

Abstract Submission: Smart water systems are vulnerable to cyber-attacks due to increased connectivity. Current simulation tools often lack full integration of cyber layers or fail to accurately represent real-world configuration of the cyber-physical layers.
We present WaCSim, an advanced simulation tool providing cyber-physical modeling for WDSs. Building on the open-source foundation of DHALSIM, WaCSim offers two primary enhancements: First, WaCSim expands cyber-network configurations by incorporating three architectures: (a) PLC Control that simulates decentralized operations where programmable logic controllers (PLCs) communicate with each other over the network, sharing sensor data to operate collaboratively without central SCADA intervention; (b) SCADA Control that simulates the SCADA system as the central controller, receiving data from all PLCs and invoking commands; (c) Hybrid Control that allows PLCs to receive data from other PLCs and from SCADA. These three schemes enable the simulation of different configurations ranging from fully decentralized to fully centralized control schemes. Second, WaCSim provides a user-friendly interface for integrating customizable Python based algorithms. Users can implement Conflict Resolution Algorithms (CRAs) to handle discrepancies between PLC and SCADA commands, as well as algorithms for anomaly detection, optimization, and system control. This enables users to assess the impact of cyber-attacks and their mitigations within the simulation tool.
We present case studies demonstrating how WaCSim can simulate cyber-attacks on different architectures and evaluate different mitigation strategies. These examples highlight WaCSim utility in enhancing the resilience, security, and operational efficiency of water distribution networks.

Learning Objectives/Expected Outcome (Optional) : Attendees will gain insight into WHALSIM's capabilities by learning how it simulates cyber-physical interactions in water distribution systems. They will explore the three control architectures within WHALSIM—PLC Control, SCADA Control, and Hybrid Control modes—to understand how each mode functions and can be applied. Additionally, participants will discover how to implement customizable Python-based algorithms for conflict resolution and anomaly detection. By analyzing cyber-attack case studies, they will review examples demonstrating attacks and mitigation strategies using WHALSIM, enhancing their understanding of cybersecurity in smart water systems.